Green Tug Transition Program

Why in the news?

Recently, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal officially launched the SOP for the Green Tug Transition Program.

Green Tug Transition Program:

• This initiative will promote the transition from conventional fuel-based harbor tugs to greener, more sustainable alternatives.
• Under this, conventional fuel-based harbor tugs operating in major ports will be phased out and replaced with green tugs operated with cleaner and more sustainable alternative fuels.
• This program is an important step towards decarbonizing maritime operations in India.
• Its first phase will start from October 2024 and continue till December 31, 2027.
• During this phase, four major ports - Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Deendayal Port Authority, Paradip Port Authority and V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority will be involved.
• These ports will procure or hire at least two green tugs based on standardized designs and specifications.
• The program is expected to entail an investment of around Rs 1000 crore in the construction of green tugs.
• The program promotes domestic innovation and manufacturing in the maritime industry.
• This will boost the domestic industry as all tugs built under the program will be built in Indian shipyards as part of the 'Make in India' initiative of the Government of India.